Common Construction Hand Injuries Prevented by Work Gloves
Construction involves handling various tools, machinery, and materials that can cause hand injuries. Many dangers exist on the jobsite, which is why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) calls for hand protection. This is also important because hurt hands can result in missed work time.
Most injuries are preventable using the right tools or equipment. Let's discuss the common construction hand injuries prevented by work gloves.
Lacerations and Cuts
Construction sites often require the handling of sharp objects, such as knives, scissors, and blades. Lacerations and cuts can occur when these tools slip or when handling sharp objects, such as broken glass or metal. Wearing work gloves with cut-resistant materials like Kevlar can help protect against lacerations and cuts.
Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains occur when things forcefully twist the wrist or fingers, causing damage to the tendons or muscles. These injuries are common among construction workers who handle heavy tools and equipment daily. Wearing gloves with wrist support or padding can help prevent sprains and strains.
Burns
Construction sites involve hot materials, such as welding equipment and hot pipes. Burns can occur when these materials come into contact with the skin. Work gloves of heat-resistant materials, such as leather, Kevlar, or silicon, can help prevent burns.
Impact Injuries
Impact injuries occur when a falling or moving object hits the hand. These injuries are common among construction workers who handle heavy equipment. Wearing gloves with impact-resistant materials, such as TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber), can help prevent impact injuries.
Puncture Injuries
Puncture injuries occur when sharp objects pierce through the skin. Puncture wounds can be severe and lead to infection if not treated correctly. Work gloves with puncture-resistant materials, such as leather or Kevlar, can help prevent puncture injuries.
You can prevent construction injuries using the right equipment, including work gloves. There are various work gloves, each suitable for specific tasks, such as handling sharp objects, providing wrist support, or protecting against heat and impact. By wearing the right gloves, construction workers can significantly reduce the risk of hand injuries. Employers should ensure their workers have the right gloves for their job type and educate them on the importance of protecting their hands.
Hi-Vis Safety has nitrile work gloves for construction and other work gloves designed specifically to protect against the common hand injuries in construction work. Check out our selection to find the right ones for your job.